Maya blue paint: An ancient nanostructured material

M. José-Yacamán, Luis Rendón, J. Arenas, Mari Carmen Serra Puche

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

228 Scopus citations

Abstract

Maya blue paint was often used in Mesoamerica. The origin of its color and its resistance to acids and biocorrosion have not been fully understood. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy, electron energy loss spectroscopy, and x-ray microanalysis studies of authentic samples show that palygorskite crystals in the paint form a superlattice that probably occurs as a result of mixing with indigo molecules. An amorphous silicate substrate contains inclusions of metal nanoparticles encapsulated in the substrate and oxide nanoparticles on the surface. The beautiful tone of the color is obtained only when both the particles and the superlattice are present.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)223-225
Number of pages3
JournalScience
Volume273
Issue number5272
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 12 1996
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General

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